1. Self-Guided Walking Tour of Cusco’s Historic Center
Cusco was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 due to its rich Inca and colonial heritage. Taking a Walking Tour in Cusco on your own is one of the best ways to explore its vibrant streets, historic plazas, and hidden architectural gems.
Key highlights you can visit on a self-guided route include:
- Plaza de Armas: The heart of the city, surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Cusco and the Church of the Society of Jesus.
- Plaza Regocijo: A peaceful square hosting Cusco’s Municipality and a charming central fountain.
- Plaza San Francisco: Home to the San Francisco Church and convent, famous for its historic cloister, catacombs, and bell tower.
- San Pedro Market: The ideal local spot to browse traditional handicrafts, sample local fruits, and experience everyday Andean culture.
- Hatunrumiyoc Street: The famous narrow alleyway where you can admire the famous 12-Angled Stone and master Inca stonework.
- San Blas Neighborhood: Known as the artisan district, offering scenic cobbled streets, local art workshops, and a breathtaking panoramic viewpoint over the city.
Prefer exploring with an expert local guide?
If you want to uncover the hidden stories, Inca legends, and history behind these iconic sights, join our daily Walking Tour Cusco. It is the most popular way to start your trip!
2. Scenic Hike to Sacsayhuamán
This hike will offer you a wonderful experience to the most famous archaeological site around Cusco. The walk is uphill and starts at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco. Head towards Suecia Street, then Resbalosa Street, and you can make a stop at the San Cristóbal viewpoint. Continue to the Inca trail, right at the entrance gate, where you make the payment and continue walking uphill until you reach Sacsayhuamán.
The entire hike to Sacsayhuamán takes 45 minutes to 1 hour. To enter, you’ll need to purchase the famous tourist ticket (bring local currency in cash).
3. Inkilltambo: Easy Inca Trail Hike Near Cusco
This archaeological site is ideal for a simple hike, recommended to escape the noise of urban areas. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the city and reach a marvelous destination. Inkilltambo belongs to the Sacsayhuamán archaeological park, so there are two ways to get here:
To reach this place, take the green urban bus called “Inka Express” on Cruz Verde Street in front of the “El Paraíso” shopping center. The fare is 1 sol, and you should get off at the “tienda” stop. In front of this stop, you will find the entrance gate. Then, walk for approximately 45 minutes. Along the route, you’ll encounter two paths; choose the one ascending to the top and continue walking until you reach the Inca site.
The hike is along a narrow, flat, and safe trail. Entrance to this place is generally free, but sometimes they charge 3 soles.
4. Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes Walk (Cheap Machu Picchu Route)
If you wish to reach Machu Picchu by bus, you’ll have to walk from the hydroelectric plant to the town of Aguas Calientes for about 3 hours along the railway tracks. We recommend not carrying a lot of luggage, just the essentials. The walk is entirely safe.
If you are in Cusco, consider hiring a travel agency to arrange transportation on buses that will take you to the hydroelectric plant. The bus journey is a bit challenging as Peruvian drivers tend to drive fast, and the road is a bit rough (unpaved); the entire bus journey takes approximately 7 hours
5. Hike to Poc Poc Waterfall in Chinchero
This is a new tourist attraction that you can easily reach. Head to Grau Avenue (across from Pavitos Street) and take the local buses heading to the town of Chinchero. This journey takes approximately 1 hour, and the fare is 7 soles per person. Once you arrive in Chinchero, visit the Chinchero archaeological site or join the Classic Sacred Valley tour. Then, take the ancient Inca trail to reach the Poc Poc Waterfalls.
Practical Tips
- Make sure to bring enough water.
- Sunscreen.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Consider the weather, bring a rain poncho.
- Local currency in soles.
